GEORGETOWN, Guyana, May 29, CMC – The Guyana government Friday warned said that it is “deeply disturbed and hurt” by a video circulated publicly which appears to show acts of abuse being perpetrated against students of the David Rose Special Education Needs School.
“No child should ever be subjected to such treatment, particularly within a school environment entrusted with their care, development and protection,” Education Minister Sonia Parag said in a statement.
“ Our children with special educational needs, as all children do, deserve patience, compassion, dignity and love. They deserve to learn in spaces where they feel safe, supported and valued.”
She said that the teachers seen in the video will be placed on administrative leave with effect from today “to facilitate a full and impartial investigation.
“This investigation, together with the relevant reports and recommendations, is expected to be completed by Monday 1st June 2026” she said, adding that the Ministry of Education will exert the fullest extent of its authority and resources to ensure that this matter is addressed urgently and appropriately.
“We will not allow any educator to perpetuate abuse against children with special needs, or indeed against any child within our school system.”
Parag apologised to the parents and families affected “by what they have seen,” adding “I wish to say that I understand the distress, hurt and anger this incident has caused.
“As parents, guardians and caregivers, you place enormous trust in our education system each day when you send your children to school. That trust must never be violated. It is precisely because the government of Guyana continues to place significant emphasis on strengthening special education support and services that this matter is being treated with the seriousness and urgency it deserves.”
Parag said that as one of the immediate next steps arising from this matter, she will move to have a Board of Governors established for the institution, with representation that includes parents, “so as to strengthen oversight, accountability and engagement between the school and the families it serves.
“The Ministry of Education remains committed to ensuring that every child in our education system is protected and treated with dignity,” she added.
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